West Noble board previews bids for chiller, parking, bus garage and other building work ahead of June meeting

The West Noble School Corporation on Tuesday reviewed updated scope, drawings and schedule for several building projects that the district expects to put to bid this spring.

The superintendent showed images of a newly installed elementary chiller that will be enclosed by an eight- to ten-foot fence to protect it from vehicle damage and explained the plan to remove the old unit. An updated bid package covering concrete, electrical and excavation work was received the evening of the meeting and officials said it would be reviewed internally and then released; bids are expected to arrive before the June 8 board meeting for the board to review alternates and final pricing.

Other elements in the package include alternates for a parking lot to improve access, lighting around both fields, and two small press boxes (one with concessions and restrooms, one for storage). The superintendent also presented final drawings for a bus garage that would include two service bays, a wash bay and office space for transportation staff; additional mechanical isolation and a mezzanine were shown in the plans.

Board members asked whether the existing concession stand could be repurposed for marching band storage and meals; the superintendent said that is likely and noted rollup-door modifications or minor investments could adapt the space. Several members said the ability to do longer-term improvements may depend on whether the parking-lot alternate is funded by the bond or by later savings.

No binding contract was approved at the meeting; the board will review actual bid prices at the June 8 meeting and make award decisions then.